Rachael's+letter

August 2nd 1865 Dear Kids and Alyssa,

Have you heard of the steamboat disaster? If you haven’t, then this is what happened. I was on the cargo ship, Sultana with 2,500 people. It was only supposed to carry 376 and was overloaded with coal. Also, the boilers were leaking. It was a warm and breezy summer day. The gorgeous sun was glistening on the deck was on deck when I heard a loud rumble. Everyone was silent for a moment. All of a sudden hot coal spit out everywhere from the boiler room. That’s why there was an explosion. Luckily, I was healthy enough to run and move. I dodged hot coals and ran straight to the water. Many people were too weak to swim, some didn’t know how to, some got hurled of the boat, and some got burned with hot flaming coals. None of those things happened to me. I was half running and half galloping when I stumbled off the back of the boat. My left hand got cutoff by the paddle. It’s alright. I’m at least alive.

None of our other family survived. Your brother, Brian got shot in the war and Uncle James got burned with fire hot coals. The other people who survived the disaster and I went to the hospital. Some people lost kidneys, arms, shoulders, legs. Way worst then my hand. We got to know each other pretty well. We decided that when we all got out of the hospital, we’d rent 4 oxen and 2 wagons. I hope to be home before Christmas. If I’m not then something is wrong. I love you all so much.

Sincerely , Dad

Dear Dad, Oct,16, 1865

We miss you so much! We are so happy to hear from you and know that you were okay! We have heard about the steamboat disaster. The rumor going around was that no one survived. Wow! More than 2,500 people that is a lot! We cannot believe that you dodged all of those flying coals, and got away with only cutting off your hand! We are so curious about what has happend.Everyone was so worried when you, Brian, and Uncle James did not come home.Uncle James was the girls favorite uncle too. I wish you were here to see their faces when I told them you were okay and should be here before Christmas.They were so excited! We all started crying when we heard that your hand was cut off. The girls have been sleeping with a picture of you under their pillow.It might take weeks to get here. Leave when you are ready and healthy. Do any of your new friends live close to our home? Come back as soon as you can! We love you and Feel Better! Love, Allysa and the girls